In addition to listing releases, the readout will show toxics transferred to and from a city, but also risk management plans.

Companies that use large amounts of substances that are flammable or toxic must file the risk management plans.

The reports on the Right-to-Know Network will list how much of the chemicals a facility stores. What the users won't find is how many pounds would be released and how many people would be affected in worst-case scenarios. That's because the EPA doesn't release that information to the public through the Toxics Release Inventory program.

A person can review up to 10 of those scenarios a month by visiting regional EPA offices.

By sending staff members and journalism students from Point Park College to EPA offices, the independent news group PublicSource found what could happen in the worst cases at the 122 places that store more than 5 tons of ammonia in Pennsylvania.

Tanner Industries, which distributes ammonia and has a facility in Tamaqua, was offered a chance to discuss the report.

David Binder, the director of quality, safety and regulatory affairs for Tanner, said ammonia may carry risks, but it adds to everyday life by fertilizing crops, refrigerating food and reducing air pollution at power plants.

Ammonia also is used in water treatment, metal treatment, chemical treatment and as a cleaner, but also by industries that make pulp, paper and plastics.

Systems can be designed to store ammonia safely, and the risk shouldn't increase as the facilities age if they are maintained, said Binder, who received an award from the EPA office in Philadelphia for going beyond the requirements in his efforts to prevent and prepare for emergencies.

"There is a lot that goes into handling ammonia safely, and one of the keys is having all parties involved working together; including facilities, regulatory agencies, responders, emergency management personnel, and the community," Binder said in an email. "Our goal is the same in that we all want to protect the health and safety of employees, communities and the environment - through working together that can be accomplished.

kjackson@standardspeaker.com 570-455-3636

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